Olympus 6010 vs Olympus XZ-1

In this write-up, we will be contrasting the Olympus 6010 and Olympus XZ-1, former being a Waterproof while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact and both of them are sold by Olympus. The sensor resolution of the 6010 (12MP) and the XZ-1 (10MP) is relatively similar but the 6010 (1/2.3") and XZ-1 (1/1.63") use different sensor size.

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The 6010 was unveiled 18 months before the XZ-1 which makes the cameras a generation apart from one another. Both of these cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go through a full comparison, below is a short summation of how the 6010 scores vs the XZ-1 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus Stylus Tough 6010 & Olympus XZ-1. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus 6010 Gallery & Olympus XZ-1 Gallery.

If you're looking to carry your camera often, you will want to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Olympus 6010 has exterior measurements of 95mm x 63mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.5" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 179 grams (0.39 lbs) whilst the Olympus XZ-1 has dimensions of 111mm x 65mm x 42mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.7") with a weight of 275 grams (0.61 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus 6010 and Olympus XZ-1 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you have during that time. Here is the front view proportions comparison of the 6010 versus the XZ-1.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the 6010 and XZ-1 is 94 and 88 respectively.

Normally, it can be hard to visualize the difference between sensor sizing only by reading specifications. The photograph underneath may offer you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the 6010 and XZ-1.

To sum up, both of the cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The 6010 with its tinier sensor is going to make getting shallower depth of field trickier and the Olympus 6010 will offer you more detail having an extra 2MP. Higher resolution will help you crop shots a little more aggressively. The older 6010 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.